Gaming monitors have come a long way in recent years, evolving from niche peripherals into critical tools for competitive and immersive gameplay. While standard monitors can technically display your games, a purpose-built gaming monitor dramatically improves the experience. With higher refresh rates, lower response times, and adaptive sync technologies, modern gaming monitors offer the precision and clarity serious gamers demand.
These displays aren’t just about speed. They also bring vivid colors, wide viewing angles, and deeper contrast—depending on the panel type. Whether you’re a casual gamer or an esports competitor, choosing the right monitor can dramatically enhance your playstyle and enjoyment.
Key Features That Matter
Before diving into specific models, it’s important to understand the foundational elements of gaming monitors:
- Refresh Rate: The number of times a display updates per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). A 144Hz or higher refresh rate ensures smooth motion, especially in FPS, racing, and action titles.
- Response Time: Measured in milliseconds (ms), this spec determines how fast pixels change color. A lower response time (ideally 1ms) reduces motion blur and ghosting.
- Resolution: 1080p is still great for performance-focused builds, 1440p (QHD) offers a sweet spot between fidelity and performance, and 4K is reserved for the most demanding visuals and powerful GPUs.
- Panel Type:
- IPS: Best for color accuracy and wide viewing angles.
- VA: Offers better contrast, making dark scenes richer.
- TN: Fastest response, but poorer color reproduction.
Modern monitors may also include support for FreeSync or G-Sync to reduce screen tearing, HDR for enhanced visuals, and ergonomic stands for comfortable setups.
Best Gaming Monitors to Buy in 2025
Our testing and review process focused on real-world performance across various price ranges and gaming genres. Below is a curated list of the top gaming monitors in 2025, ranked in the order they appear in our full buyer’s guide.
| Ranking | Monitor | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Amazon Basics 27-Inch Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
| 2 | LG UltraGear 32″ Curved Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
| 3 | Sceptre Curved 27-inch Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
| 4 | Sceptre Curved 24.5-inch Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
| 5 | Sceptre 27″ Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
| 6 | SANSUI 24-inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
| 7 | Samsung Odyssey G55C Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
| 8 | Sceptre 30-inch Curved Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
| 9 | Acer Nitro KG241Y | Click to Check |
| 10 | Viewedge 24″ FHD Gaming Monitor | Click to Check |
Trends in 2025 Gaming Displays
Some notable trends in this year’s top displays:
- 240Hz+ Refresh Rates: Previously reserved for high-end gear, 240Hz panels are now more common in sub-$300 monitors.
- Curved Displays: Increasingly popular in sizes above 27″, curved screens improve immersion and reduce eye strain.
- Color Accuracy Meets Speed: Modern IPS and VA panels now deliver both speed and rich visuals, narrowing the gap with TN panels.
- Adaptive Sync Everywhere: Nearly every model above includes FreeSync or G-Sync support, making screen tearing a thing of the past.
These advancements mean buyers no longer have to choose between performance and picture quality—today’s best monitors do both well.
This list represents a variety of needs, from budget-conscious casual players to hardcore competitive gamers who want nothing but the best performance. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your setup or build a new rig from scratch, these gaming monitors offer a blend of performance, features, and value tailored to the demands of 2025 gaming.
Best Gaming Monitors
Gaming monitors have evolved significantly with recent advancements in display technology. The market now offers options with higher refresh rates, lower response times, and improved color accuracy compared to previous generations. Our team has tested and analyzed the top gaming displays available in early 2025 to help you find the perfect match for your gaming setup.
Amazon Basics 27-Inch Gaming Monitor
This budget-friendly 27-inch IPS monitor delivers solid 1080p performance with a 75Hz refresh rate that casual gamers will appreciate for its affordability and feature set.
Pros
- Full HD IPS panel provides excellent color accuracy from all viewing angles
- Multiple connectivity options including HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA
- VESA mount compatibility offers flexible setup options
Cons
- 75Hz refresh rate may not satisfy competitive gamers needing higher framerates
- Built-in speakers deliver adequate but not impressive audio quality
- Limited ergonomic adjustments with only tilt functionality
The Amazon Basics 27-inch monitor strikes a balance between price and performance for casual gaming sessions. Its 1080p resolution provides clear visuals on the generously sized 27-inch screen, while the IPS panel technology ensures consistent colors regardless of viewing position. The 75Hz refresh rate, while not matching the 144Hz+ displays preferred by competitive gamers, still delivers a smoother experience than standard 60Hz monitors.
Connectivity isn’t an issue with this display. It features HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA inputs, plus USB ports and an audio jack for comprehensive device compatibility. The inclusion of built-in speakers eliminates the need for external audio equipment for basic gaming needs, though dedicated headphones or speakers would enhance the experience for more immersive gameplay.
Setup flexibility is a notable advantage of this monitor. The VESA compatibility enables wall mounting or monitor arm installation if desk space is limited. Energy efficiency certification helps reduce power consumption during extended gaming sessions. While the stand’s adjustment options are limited to tilt (-5 to 20 degrees), this monitor represents solid value for budget-conscious gamers who prioritize screen size and color accuracy over premium gaming features.
LG UltraGear 32″ Curved Gaming Monitor
This LG UltraGear curved gaming monitor delivers exceptional performance with its QHD resolution, 180Hz refresh rate, and immersive 1000R curvature, making it an excellent investment for serious gamers.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 180Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time eliminates motion blur
- Immersive 1000R curved design pulls you into the gaming experience
- HDR10 support with 99% sRGB color gamut provides vibrant visuals
Cons
- Premium price point may not suit budget-conscious buyers
- Large 32-inch size requires significant desk space
- Some users report issues with the included DisplayPort cable
The LG 32GS60QC-B stands out in the crowded gaming monitor market with its impressive specifications. Gamers will appreciate the QHD (2560×1440) resolution that strikes an ideal balance between visual clarity and performance demands. The monitor’s 180Hz refresh rate paired with a 1ms GTG response time ensures buttery-smooth gameplay without ghosting or motion blur during fast-paced action.
The monitor’s 1000R curved design creates a more immersive gaming experience by matching the natural curvature of the human eye. This design choice brings the edges of the screen closer to the viewer’s peripheral vision, making games feel more enveloping. Players of racing games and first-person shooters will particularly benefit from this enhanced field of view.
Color performance is another strong point for this UltraGear model. With HDR10 support and coverage of 99% of the sRGB color spectrum, games appear vivid and lifelike. The three-sided virtually borderless design minimizes distractions, while the matte screen surface reduces glare from ambient light sources. AMD FreeSync technology prevents screen tearing by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card’s output.
LG has included several gamer-focused features that enhance the overall experience. The Black Stabilizer function improves visibility in dark scenes, giving players a competitive edge. Dynamic Action Sync reduces input lag, while the on-screen FPS counter allows for real-time performance monitoring. Multiple preset display modes optimize settings for different game genres, letting users quickly switch between ideal configurations for FPS, RTS, or general gaming.
Connectivity options are plentiful with dual HDMI ports and a DisplayPort, allowing for multiple devices to be connected simultaneously. The tilt-adjustable stand provides some ergonomic flexibility, though some users might miss height adjustment or swivel capabilities at this price point.
Sceptre Curved 27-inch Gaming Monitor
The Sceptre C275W-FW100T offers exceptional value for gamers and professionals seeking a curved display that balances performance features with affordability.
Pros
- Fast 100Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time reduces motion blur
- 1500R curved VA panel creates an immersive viewing experience
- Built-in speakers eliminate the need for external audio equipment
Cons
- 1080p resolution may not satisfy users wanting higher pixel density
- Limited ergonomic adjustment options
- Audio quality from built-in speakers is basic
This 27-inch curved monitor delivers smooth visuals for both gaming and productivity tasks. The 100Hz refresh rate ensures fluid motion when gaming or scrolling through documents, while the 1ms response time minimizes ghosting during fast-paced action. Users will appreciate the 1500R curvature that gently wraps around their field of vision.
Color accuracy stands out as a highlight with 100% sRGB coverage. This makes the Sceptre suitable for casual content creation alongside gaming use. The VA panel technology provides deep blacks and good contrast ratios, enhancing both gaming environments and multimedia content.
Connectivity options are generous for the price point. Dual HDMI ports and a DisplayPort input allow for multiple device connections simultaneously. The built-in speakers provide a clutter-free desktop solution, though dedicated gamers may still prefer headphones or external speakers for more immersive audio.
Eye comfort features include a blue light filter to reduce strain during extended sessions. This thoughtful addition acknowledges that many users spend long hours in front of their screens. The matte screen finish effectively minimizes distracting reflections in varied lighting conditions.
Sceptre Curved 24.5-inch Gaming Monitor
The Sceptre C255B-FWT240 gaming monitor delivers exceptional performance with its 240Hz refresh rate and 1500R curvature at a price point that makes it an excellent choice for competitive gamers.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 240Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time eliminates motion blur
- Immersive 1500R curved display enhances field of view
- Built-in speakers save desk space and eliminate need for external audio
Cons
- 1080p resolution may not satisfy users seeking higher pixel density
- Stand quality issues reported by some users
- Limited adjustability options compared to premium monitors
This 24.5-inch curved gaming monitor from Sceptre packs impressive specs for competitive gaming. The 240Hz refresh rate coupled with AMD FreeSync Premium technology ensures smooth gameplay without screen tearing or stuttering. Gamers will appreciate the 1ms MPRT response time that virtually eliminates ghosting during fast-paced action sequences.
The 1500R curvature wraps the screen gently around the user’s field of vision. This design choice isn’t just about aesthetics—it provides a more immersive gaming experience by matching the natural curvature of the human eye. The matte screen surface helps reduce glare, making it suitable for various lighting conditions.
Connectivity options include dual DisplayPort and HDMI ports, offering flexibility for multi-device setups. The built-in speakers deliver adequate sound for casual gaming sessions or everyday tasks. At just 6.9 pounds with modest dimensions, this monitor strikes a good balance between screen size and desk footprint. Released in 2023, the C255B-FWT240 represents Sceptre’s commitment to delivering high-performance gaming monitors at competitive prices.
Sceptre 27″ Gaming Monitor
The Sceptre 27″ Gaming Monitor offers excellent value for budget-conscious gamers with its 100Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync support.
Pros
- 100Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time for smooth gaming
- Multiple connectivity options (2 HDMI, 1 DisplayPort)
- Blue Light Shift feature reduces eye strain during extended sessions
Cons
- Limited to 1080p resolution on a 27″ screen
- Built-in speakers lack bass and volume
- No height adjustment on the included stand
This affordable gaming monitor brings essential gaming features without breaking the bank. The 100Hz refresh rate provides smoother motion than standard 60Hz displays, particularly noticeable in fast-paced games. AMD FreeSync technology helps eliminate screen tearing and stuttering for a more seamless experience.
Color performance is a highlight, with 100% sRGB coverage delivering vibrant and accurate colors for both gaming and content creation. The 1080p resolution, while not the sharpest option for a 27″ panel, still offers clear visuals for most gaming scenarios. Competitive gamers will appreciate the dedicated FPS and RTS game modes that optimize display settings for these genres.
Connectivity is versatile with dual HDMI ports and a DisplayPort, allowing users to connect multiple devices simultaneously. The frameless design gives the monitor a modern look while maximizing screen space. Additional features like built-in speakers and a headphone jack provide convenience, though serious gamers will likely prefer dedicated audio solutions for better sound quality.
SANSUI 24-inch 100Hz Gaming Monitor
The SANSUI 24-inch 100Hz monitor offers a solid budget-friendly option for casual gamers and office users seeking a reliable display without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Smooth 100Hz refresh rate enhances gaming experience
- IPS panel provides excellent viewing angles and color reproduction
- Adjustable tilt and VESA mount compatibility for ergonomic setup
Cons
- No built-in speakers or headphone jack
- Limited to 1080p resolution
- Stand design could be more stable
This 23.8-inch monitor features a Full HD 1080p IPS display with a 100Hz refresh rate that provides smoother visuals than standard 60Hz monitors. Games appear more fluid and responsive, making it a decent choice for casual gamers who don’t need the highest-end specifications. The 250 nits brightness and 110% sRGB color gamut deliver vivid colors for both gaming and productivity tasks.
Connectivity options include HDMI 1.4 and VGA ports, with an HDMI cable included in the package. The monitor supports HDR content, which enhances contrast and color depth in compatible games and media. Users will appreciate the eye-care features including low blue light technology, anti-glare coating, and flicker-free display that help reduce eye strain during extended gaming sessions.
The V-shaped metal stand saves desk space while allowing for tilt adjustments between -5° and 15°. For users who prefer alternative mounting solutions, the monitor is compatible with 75x75mm VESA mounts. At just 5.5 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to reposition as needed. The absence of built-in speakers might disappoint some users, but most serious gamers typically opt for dedicated audio solutions anyway.
Samsung Odyssey G55C Gaming Monitor
The Samsung Odyssey G55C offers impressive gaming performance with its 165Hz refresh rate and immersive 1000R curve, making it an excellent choice for competitive and casual gamers alike.
Pros
- QHD resolution delivers sharper images than standard Full HD
- Fast 165Hz refresh rate with 1ms response time reduces motion blur
- 1000R curved display enhances immersion during gameplay
Cons
- HDR10 implementation is somewhat limited compared to higher-end models
- May require adjustments to default settings for optimal performance
- Text clarity might need sharpness adjustments out of the box
The 32-inch Samsung Odyssey G55C gaming monitor stands out with its QHD resolution (2560 x 1440), providing 1.7 times the pixel density of standard Full HD displays. This higher resolution creates noticeably sharper images and more screen real estate for both gaming and productivity tasks.
Gamers will appreciate the 165Hz refresh rate paired with a 1ms MPRT response time, which significantly reduces motion blur during fast-paced action sequences. The monitor’s AMD FreeSync technology synchronizes the display with compatible graphics cards to eliminate screen tearing and stuttering, resulting in smoother gameplay.
The monitor’s 1000R curvature matches the natural curve of the human eye, filling peripheral vision for a more immersive gaming experience. This design helps reduce eye strain during extended gaming sessions, complemented by the Eye Saver Mode that minimizes blue light emission.
Color performance benefits from HDR10 support, offering enhanced contrast between dark and bright areas. While not as robust as premium HDR implementations, it still provides improved visual depth in games and media that support this feature. The matte display surface effectively reduces glare from ambient light sources.
Setup is straightforward, though some users may want to adjust the default settings to optimize image quality. Connectivity options are sufficient for most gaming setups, allowing for flexible configuration with multiple devices. The monitor’s build quality feels solid, with a stable stand that maintains position during intense gaming sessions.
Sceptre 30-inch Curved Gaming Monitor
The Sceptre 30-inch curved gaming monitor offers excellent value with its ultra-wide display, high refresh rate, and immersive gaming features at a price point that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Impressive 200Hz refresh rate through DisplayPort for butter-smooth gaming
- Ultra-wide 21:9 aspect ratio provides excellent screen real estate
- AMD FreeSync technology eliminates screen tearing and stuttering
Cons
- 1080p resolution stretched across 30 inches isn’t ideal for text-heavy work
- Built-in speakers provide only basic audio quality
- Some users may prefer higher pixel density for sharper images
The Sceptre C305B-200UN1 creates an immersive gaming experience with its 30-inch curved display. Its ultrawide 21:9 aspect ratio gives gamers a competitive advantage with expanded peripheral vision in racing games, shooters, and strategy titles. The 2560×1080 resolution balances performance demands with visual quality, allowing even mid-range graphics cards to achieve high frame rates.
Gaming performance stands out as a major strength thanks to the monitor’s 200Hz refresh rate when connected via DisplayPort. This high refresh rate delivers exceptionally smooth motion, reducing blur and providing crisp visuals during fast-paced action. AMD FreeSync compatibility further enhances the gaming experience by synchronizing the monitor’s refresh rate with the GPU’s frame output, eliminating screen tearing without adding input lag.
Eye comfort features deserve mention for extended gaming sessions. The Blue Light Shift function reduces eye strain during long play periods, while the anti-flicker technology prevents the subtle screen flickering that can cause fatigue. The thin bezels maximize screen space and create a more seamless viewing experience. For gamers concerned with desk space, the VESA mount compatibility allows for flexible installation options beyond the included stand.
Acer Nitro KG241Y
The Acer Nitro KG241Y provides exceptional value for competitive gamers seeking high refresh rates and responsive gameplay at an affordable price point.
Pros
- 165Hz refresh rate with AMD FreeSync Premium delivers smooth, tear-free gaming
- Zero-frame design maximizes screen space and supports multi-monitor setups
- Multiple connectivity options with DisplayPort and dual HDMI ports
Cons
- Limited adjustability with only tilt function available
- VA panel may have narrower viewing angles than IPS alternatives
- HDR capability is basic rather than premium quality
This 23.8-inch Full HD monitor stands out in the budget gaming segment with its impressive 165Hz refresh rate. Gamers will appreciate the 1ms response time (VRB) that minimizes motion blur during fast-paced action sequences. The AMD FreeSync Premium technology synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with the graphics card output, effectively eliminating screen tearing.
Design features include a space-saving zero-frame construction that maximizes the viewable area. This slim bezel also makes the Acer Nitro ideal for multi-monitor setups, creating an immersive panoramic gaming experience. The monitor comes with tilt adjustment from -5° to 15°, though some users might miss height or swivel adjustments found on higher-end models.
Connectivity doesn’t disappoint with one DisplayPort 1.2 and two HDMI 2.0 ports available. These options provide flexibility for connecting multiple devices simultaneously. The monitor includes Acer’s ComfyView technology, which reduces eye strain during extended gaming sessions. VESA mount compatibility offers alternative installation possibilities for those wanting to free up desk space or achieve optimal positioning.
Viewedge 24″ FHD Gaming Monitor
The Viewedge 24-inch gaming monitor delivers exceptional value with its 165Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time, making it an excellent choice for competitive gamers seeking smooth gameplay without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lightning-fast 1ms response time with 165Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur
- Eye protection features including flicker-free technology and blue light filter
- Versatile connectivity with dual HDMI ports and DisplayPort
Cons
- Limited to 1080p resolution in an era where 1440p is becoming standard
- Built-in speakers not included despite gaming focus
- Stand lacks height adjustment options
This monitor combines essential gaming features at an accessible price point. The 24-inch IPS panel delivers vivid colors with 105% sRGB coverage while maintaining the rapid 1ms response time typically associated with TN panels. Gamers will appreciate how the 165Hz refresh rate creates buttery-smooth motion during fast-paced action sequences.
Visual quality receives a boost through HDR10 support, enhancing contrast and color depth beyond standard displays. The adaptive sync technology eliminates screen tearing without introducing input lag, creating a more immersive experience. For extended gaming sessions, the blue light filter and flicker-free technology help reduce eye strain.
Connectivity options provide flexibility for multi-device setups. The dual HDMI ports allow simultaneous connection to a PC and console, while the included DisplayPort cable supports the maximum refresh rate. The monitor’s VESA mount compatibility offers additional placement options for those with limited desk space. Though lacking some premium features of higher-priced models, this Viewedge monitor delivers impressive performance where it matters most for competitive gaming.
Buying Guide
Selecting the right gaming monitor requires understanding several key specifications. Gamers should consider response time, refresh rate, resolution, and panel type before making a purchase decision.
Resolution
Resolution affects image clarity and detail. Higher resolution displays produce sharper images but require more powerful graphics cards.
| Resolution | Common Name | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| 1920×1080 | Full HD | Entry-level gaming |
| 2560×1440 | QHD | Mid-range gaming |
| 3840×2160 | 4K | High-end gaming |
Refresh Rate
Refresh rate measures how many times per second a screen updates. Higher rates provide smoother gameplay and can give competitive players an advantage.
Most gaming monitors offer 60Hz, 144Hz, or 240Hz options. Competitive gamers should aim for at least 144Hz for fluid motion in fast-paced titles.
Response Time
This specification indicates how quickly pixels change color. Lower numbers reduce motion blur and ghosting effects.
Look for monitors with 1ms to 5ms response times. TN panels typically offer the fastest speeds, while IPS and VA panels balance speed with better color reproduction.
Panel Technology
The panel type affects viewing angles, color accuracy, and response times.
TN panels deliver speed but have limited viewing angles. IPS panels provide superior colors and viewing angles. VA panels offer the best contrast ratios for deeper blacks.
Additional Features
Consider these features when comparing options:
- Adaptive sync (G-Sync or FreeSync) to prevent screen tearing
- HDR support for enhanced contrast and color
- Ergonomic stands with height, tilt, and swivel adjustments
- Connectivity options (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB)
Screen size and aspect ratio should match your desk space and gaming preferences.
